Safcol Hiking Trails and Lodges, South Africa.

As custodians of many of South Africa’s most scenic tracts of land, Safcol ensure a balance between the utilisation and conservation of he environment. Several trails and lodges from which to choose, as follows:

• Magoebaskloof. Steeped in the mysteries of bitter conflict and hidden fortune, the indigenous forest of Magoebaskloof provides an enchanting backdrop to our rich heritage. From quiet sub-tropical valleys to cascading mountain streams. Beautiful log cabins and historical soapstone mule stables.
• Prospector’s Trail. A step back into history. Follow the route of the early gold miners along “cocopan” paths, digging sites, historical railways and old mines. After uncovering the charm of Pilgrim’s Rest, the trail passes through exquisite clivia bush to Robber’s Pass. Watch a glorious sunset from Blackhill Overnight Hut. Reflect on an era long gone but not forgotten.
• Tstitsikamma. Enchanting combination of primeval forests and flowering fynbos against a backdrop of jagged mountains that host a wealth of flora. Giving sanctuary to leopard, baboon, vervet monkey, honey badger, large spotted genet, bushbuck and klipspringer, not to mention birdlife. Cool off in the trail’s many pools.
• Fanie Botha. Wind your way through a landscape decorated with yellowwood plantations and indigenous forest, along the eastern slopes of Stanley Bush Hill and the Old Coach Road, to be treated to a sight of the Mac Mac Falls.
• Kaapschehoop (Kaapsehoop) Blessed with an abundance of natural beauty and man’s relentless desire for development. Breathtaking views and rare game species, historical old mines and a peek into the village’s shops, galleries and pubs.
• Uitsoek. From pine plantations above Houtbosloop through indigenous scrub forest in deep gorges, the trail passes the Bakkrans Waterfall. Descend into the solitude of an exquisite ravine forest.
• Lakenvlei Forest Lodge. In the spectacular surroundings of a natural heritage site. Mountain biking (cycling) with the kids. Horse riding or fly fishing in the river. The glow of an open fire. The comfort of a furnished log cabin. Contact +27 (13) 253 0550 telephone, +27 (13) 253 0844 fax.
• Hlalanathi Guest House. In the sub-tropical serenity of the Sabie/Hazyview Valley and an hour’s drive form the Kruger National Park. Contact +27 (13) 764 1058 telephone.
• Nyalazi Luxury Cabins. Birdwatching from an elevated position, overlooking Lake St Lucia and the surrounding forests. Two luxuriously decorated units with every creature comfort. +27 (36) 550 4177 telephone
• Tokai Cottage Guest House. In tranquil, tree lined Tokai, near the Constantia Valley. Lovingly restored, this old forestry building offers three luxurious bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. Contact +27 (12) 481 3615 telephone
• Kaapschehoop Horse Trails. Cross this scenic mountainous environment through lush vegetation, forests and open grasslands. Contact +27 (13) 7344995 telephone